Why should British remote workers trade the bustling city of London for the tech-tropical charm of Kuala Lumpur?
We dug deep and found seven irresistible reasons why this Asian paradise is the perfect home away from home.
Ready to find out why?
Let’s dive in!
First real estate options
If you’re one of the few reluctant to move, you probably haven’t heard of Singapore’s world-class property and real estate market.
Thanks to a territory of 723 square km (281 square miles)the city-state has doubled down on investment in quality housing, as opposed to the mass developments common in Europe.
Their property market offers high-quality living options tailored for expats, some of which include the Emerald of Katong, which offers luxury amenities and a strategic location.
World-class connectivity
Singapore boasts world-class infrastructure with high-speed internet and a reliable transportation system.
Changi Airport, one of the best in the world, offers seamless connections to major cities around the world, facilitating both business and leisure travel.
This ensures that remote workers can stay connected to their teams and clients effortlessly, making Singapore an extremely convenient location for remote working.
Solid political and economic context
Singapore’s economy is one of most dynamic and resilient in the world.
This is evident when you consider how multi-million dollar companies like Dyson they are abandoning their British roots for the pastures of Singapore.
As a nation, it not only ranks as a global financial center, but offers remote workers a safe and opportunity-rich political and economic environment.
High quality of life
Singapore consistently ranks first global quality of life surveys.
It offers a clean, safe and green environment with excellent food, health and education systems.
The city’s efficient public transportation, world-class amenities, and myriad recreational options ensure a comfortable and enriching lifestyle for remote workers and their families.
Sustainable living
Singapore is a global leader in sustainable development, with numerous green initiatives and eco-friendly buildings.
The Emerald of Katong show flat demonstrates the city’s commitment to sustainability, as is evident in its green spaces and support for renewable energy.
If you prioritize environmental responsibility, Singapore offers a lifestyle that aligns with your sustainable values.
Cultural diversity
Singapore is a multicultural city with a rich mosaic of ethnicities and traditions.
English, being one of the official languages, facilitates the adaptation and integration of British expatriates.
The city’s cultural diversity is reflected in its food, festivals and daily life, offering a vibrant and inclusive environment.
Dynamic job market
Singapore’s job market is diverse, with strong sectors in finance, technology, healthcare and more.
This creates numerous opportunities for remote workers to network, collaborate and grow their careers.
The city’s strategic location in Asia also opens doors to regional markets, improving professional prospects.
Great locations for British remote workers in Singapore
Here is a list of places that will undoubtedly leave you breathless:
Katong area
Katong is known for its Peranakan culture, reflected in the area’s architecture and cuisine.
This offers a unique cultural experience for remote workers who want to step away from their desk every now and then.
THE Katong emerald it is an emerging location that combines the cultural heritage of the area with modern life.
Being located in the vibrant Katong area, residents can access Singapore’s rich culture and lifestyle in ways never experienced before.
Tiong Bahru
Tiong Bahru combines old world charm with modern conveniences.
Known for its art deco architecture, trendy cafes and boutiques, it offers a lively community atmosphere.
The area is also home to several coworking spaces, making it an excellent choice for remote workers looking for a balance between work and play.
Robertson Quay
Located along the Singapore River, Robertson Quay is a lively area with a myriad of dining and entertainment options.
It boasts a relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for remote workers looking for a scenic and peaceful environment.
The area’s connectivity and proximity to the Central Business District (CBD) are additional advantages.
Oriental Coast
The East Coast area is renowned for its beautiful coastline and recreational activities.
It offers a more relaxed lifestyle than the city centre, with easy access to East Coast Park, where remote workers can unwind with cycling, jogging or beach activities.
The area also has a good mix of residential options, from condos to land registry homes.
Holland village
Holland Village is popular among expats due to its lively nightlife, diverse dining options and proximity to the city centre.
It’s a great place for remote workers who love a lively social scene.
The area also has several co-working spaces and is well connected by public transport.
Sentosa Bay
For those who prefer a luxurious lifestyle, Sentosa Cove offers waterfront living with a range of high-end amenities.
This exclusive residential area offers a serene environment away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
It’s ideal for remote workers who prioritize comfort and luxury.
Comparing life and work in Singapore and London for remote workers
Feeding costs
London:
Grocery shop:
On a monthly basis, the cost of shopping for a single person in London ranges from £150 to £300.
rices may vary based on food preferences and purchasing habits.
Dining out:
A meal in a budget restaurant costs around £15, whilst a three course meal in a mid-range restaurant can cost around £60-£80.
Singapore:
Grocery shop:
The monthly cost of grocery shopping for a single person in Singapore is around SGD 200 to SGD 400 (around £115 to £230).
Like London, this varies based on dietary choices and shopping preferences.
Dining out:
Meals at budget restaurants typically cost around SGD 10 (around £5.75), while three-course meals for two at mid-range restaurants can cost around SGD 60-80 (around £35-£45).
Rent
London:
London’s property market is well documented, with central areas such as Westminster and Kensington particularly expensive.
The rent for a one-bedroom flat easily exceeds £2,000 a month.
Singapore:
Singapore is also known for its high cost of living, especially in terms of housing.
Rental costs for the same one-bedroom apartment in the city center generally range from SGD 2,500 to SGD 4,500 (approximately £1,400 to £2,500).
Cultural experience
London:
London offers a vast cultural experience with its museums, theaters and historical monuments.
The city’s diverse culinary and social scene reflects its multicultural population.
Singapore:
Singapore rivals London in terms of cultural diversity, with influences from Chinese, Malay, Indian and Western traditions.
The city offers unique cultural experiences, from bustling hawker centers to upscale restaurants.
Work-life balance
London:
Most Londoners face long commutes and as a result, it is not easy to explore despite the city’s parks and cultural venues.
Singapore:
Singapore offers shorter commutes and easy access to green spaces.
Properties like the Emerald of Katong place an emphasis on health-oriented city architecture, which ensures that work and play are intertwined.
Infrastructure and Connectivity
London:
London has a strong infrastructure and reliable internet connectivity, which is crucial for remote working.
The city offers numerous co-working spaces, such as WeWork and The Office Group.
Singapore:
Singapore ranks high for its digital and physical infrastructure, making it ideal for remote working.
The city-state boasts excellent internet quality and cybersecurity, with co-working spaces such as The Hive and WeWork providing top-notch facilities.
Climate
London:
London’s climate is known for its unpredictability, with long, gray winters and short, sometimes humid summers.
Singapore:
Singapore’s climate is tropical, with warm weather all year round, although it is also humid and rains frequently.
Safety and quality of life
London:
London is generally safe but has areas with higher crime rates. Quality of life varies depending on the neighborhood and financial possibilities.
Singapore:
Singapore is known for both safety and cleanliness, offering a high quality of life.
The city-state’s strict laws and efficient law enforcement contribute to its low crime rates. Singapore also ranks high in healthcare and education
Conclusion
Singapore offers a unique combination of economic opportunities, a high quality of life and a friendly environment for expats.
By moving to Singapore, anyone, including digital nomads, can enjoy a dynamic and rewarding lifestyle while benefiting from a change of scenery.